The Marangu route is one of the most established paths on Mount Kilimanjaro, featuring a well-maintained and gradual trail that leads all the way to Kibo base camp and ultimately to the summit. It is often considered the most comfortable and easiest route due to its gentle slopes. On this trek, the climb is steady and moderate, with the only significant challenge being the final ascent to the summit. The nickname ‘Coca-Cola Route’ can be misleading, as many climbers mistakenly assume it’s an easy hike to the top.
While the Marangu route can be completed in 5 to 6 days, making it more affordable, this does not mean it’s necessarily easier than other routes. One of its key distinctions is that it’s the only route where you sleep in huts rather than tents, but we recommend an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Huts for those without prior high-altitude trekking experience.
The route starts at the Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) headquarters in Marangu village and heads west toward Kibo. Hikers pass through various landscapes, including lush rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and moorland, before reaching the arctic zone at the summit. The descent follows the same path, and accommodations along the way are in wooden huts.
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The 5-day Marangu Route is an incredible experience for anyone looking to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro. Also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is considered the easiest path, with the added bonus of staying in huts, which provide more comfort than tents.